9 Inventive Ways to Build an Extra Bed

Whenever family and friends come together, you’re likely to need extra sleeping accommodations. You don’t have a traditional guest room? Never fear. There are plenty of ways you can DIY a guest bed in the space that you have. So go ahead and invite a few extra friends. The more the merrier!

Army Cot

A vintage army cot makes for a rustic and streamlined window seat—but it can also double as a daybed if need be. To freshen up a find that's worse for wear, remove the musty old seat cover and affix new canvas with a staple gun.

Under-the-Floor Hideaway

This mini office sits atop a false floor that hides an ingenious surprise—a guest bed! The concealed full mattress rests on a platform with casters, so it can slide all the way out for a comfortable night's rest and be stowed away when the guests are gone. For the tutorial, visit Lucky Pony.

DIY Convertible Couch

If you don’t have a separate room for guests, a couch that converts into a bed is the ideal piece of multifunctional furniture. Build your own comfy sleeping space with these plans from Little Green Bow, which call for foam mattresses and toppers on an upholstered wood frame.

In a Closet

A walk-in closet can be converted into a sleeping nook with style. Keep a cozy alcove like this tranquil with neutral colors and soft textures. Any guest would be happy to retire to this mini retreat for a little shut-eye.

Murphy Bed

A Murphy bed is the ultimate in space-saving sleeping quarters. When you need an extra bed, simply pull it down; it can disappear back into the wall once friends and family are gone. You can buy a Murphy bed, or DIY your own by installing the proper hardware in a cabinet.

Bench Cot

Long on guests, but short on space? This sweet accordion cot folds out from under a bench. If you have patience and attention to detail, you can build one yourself with this tutorial. And you know that if you build it, they will come.

DIY Trundle Bed

This DIY trundle bed is surprisingly easy and quick to put together. All you need is a bunky board (available wherever mattresses are sold), casters, and handles. A makeshift bed skirt can conceal the extra mattress when not in use. To find out more, read the tutorial at Landeelu.

Convertible Coffee Table

You can put your coffee on it, or you can sleep on it! This simple and practical table flips open to reveal a bed that can accommodate an average-size adult. It houses everything—mattress, bedding, and even the pillow. For full details, read the how-to.

Two Twins to King

If you have two twin beds on hand, you can quickly and easily build king-size accommodations. Simply push the two beds together and lay the specially designed sheepskin pad in the middle. Wrap the straps around the mattresses tightly to hold them together. Then all you need to do is make the bed and extend an invitation.